Ministry of Science and ICT Expands Radio Usage Fee Discount for Discount Mobile Providers to 90%

The Ministry of Science and ICT announced it will expand the radio usage fee discount for small discount mobile providers from 50% to 90%, extending the period by three years. This measure is part of the government's plan to stabilize living costs and reduce burdens on citizens. The radio usage fee, mandated by law, is a cost borne by telecom operators. Small discount mobile providers currently receive a 50% discount, set to expire next year. Discount rates have gradually decreased from 100% before 2024 to 80% in 2025 and 50% this year, with large companies having no discounts since 2023. The ministry cited the low pricing of discount mobile services compared to major carriers and the high usage rates among young people and vulnerable groups as key factors. The expanded discount will take effect from early 2024 following a revision to the Radio Act implementation rules. The ministry also plans to extend the 'Data安心 Option (QoS)' to discount mobile providers, offering minimum speeds of around 400Kbps for basic functions like messaging and map searches.